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Ojos Indígenas Ecological Park & Reserve: Punta Cana's Premier Biodiversity Sanctuary

While development edges along the Dominican Republic's coastline, vast stretches of pristine coastal plains and mangrove forests remain protected. Located 500m south of—and integrated with—the Puntacana Resort & Club, Ojos Indígenas Ecological Park spans over 6 sq km of safeguarded coastal and inland habitats. It hosts around 100 bird species (including 27 endemic to the Dominican Republic), 160 insect species, and 500 plant species.

Immerse yourself in a rewarding three-hour guided tour—available in English, French, or Spanish—through a lush 30-hectare section of the reserve. Explore 12 freshwater lagoons (three ideal for swimming), nourished by an underground river flowing to the ocean. Extended tours feature the park's botanical and fruit gardens, an iguana conservation farm, and a farm-animal petting zoo.

The visitor center showcases an impressive insect collection curated by Harvard entomology students, alongside detailed maps and photographs of the region. Managed by the nonprofit Puntacana Ecological Foundation (established in 1994), the park safeguards local ecosystems—including 8km of coral reefs—and champions sustainable tourism and hospitality. Nearly 4 hectares house the Center for Sustainability, a collaboration with Cornell University and other U.S. institutions studying native flora, birds, and insects. Puntacana Resort & Club guests enjoy free entry and self-guided options; guided tours include transport from nearby hotels.

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